How to Prepare Your Home’s Exterior for Midwest Winters

• Heavy snowfall and drifting

• Freeze-thaw cycles that repeat for months

• Ice dams and snowmelt runoff

• Strong winter winds

• Freezing rain and sleet

These conditions expose weaknesses in exterior systems. Preparing before winter helps address small issues before they become major problems.

Start With a Full Exterior Inspection

Before focusing on individual components, take a step back and assess your home’s exterior as a whole.

What to Look For

• Visible cracks, gaps, or loose materials

• Signs of moisture staining or discoloration

• Areas where water may collect or drain poorly

A proactive inspection in early fall gives you time to schedule repairs before temperatures drop.

Preparing Your Roof for Winter Weather

Your roof takes the brunt of Midwest winter conditions and should be a top priority.

Inspect Shingles and Flashing

Look for:

• Missing, cracked, or curling shingles

• Loose or damaged flashing around chimneys and vents

• Exposed nail heads or sealant failure

Even minor roof issues can worsen quickly once snow and ice accumulate.

Address Ice Dam Risk

Ice dams are a common winter problem in Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

Preventive steps include:

• Ensuring proper attic insulation

• Improving roof ventilation

• Sealing air leaks that allow warm air to escape

These measures reduce snowmelt on the roof and limit refreezing at the eaves.

Preparing Gutters and Drainage Systems

Gutters play a critical role in managing snowmelt and winter rain.

Clean and Secure Gutters

Before winter:

• Remove leaves, debris, and sediment

• Check for sagging or loose sections

• Ensure gutters are pitched correctly

Clogged gutters can trap ice and cause water to back up under shingles or behind siding.

Check Downspouts

Downspouts should:

• Extend water away from the foundation

• Be clear of obstructions

• Remain securely attached

Proper drainage reduces the risk of basement leaks and foundation damage during winter thaws.

Protecting Siding From Winter Damage

Siding shields your home from wind, moisture, and temperature extremes.

Inspect for Cracks and Gaps

Look closely for:

• Cracked or warped panels

• Gaps at seams or corners

• Loose trim pieces

Freeze-thaw cycles can widen small gaps, allowing moisture behind the siding.

Manage Snow Near Walls

Avoid piling snow against siding, especially near the foundation. Prolonged snow contact increases moisture exposure and raises the risk of rot and mold.

Preparing Windows and Doors for Cold Weather

Windows and doors are common sources of heat loss in winter.

Seal Air Leaks

Check for:

• Drafts around frames

• Worn weatherstripping

• Cracked or deteriorating caulk

Sealing leaks improves comfort and reduces heating costs during long Wisconsin and Illinois winters.

Inspect Glass and Frames

Look for:

• Condensation between panes

• Rotting or soft window frames

• Difficulty opening or closing windows

These issues often worsen during freezing temperatures.

The Role of Insulation and Ventilation

While not always visible, insulation and ventilation directly affect exterior performance.

Why Ventilation Matters

Proper attic ventilation helps:

• Regulate roof temperature

• Reduce ice dam formation

• Control moisture buildup

Poor ventilation often leads to winter roof and siding issues.

Insulation’s Impact

Adequate insulation keeps warm air inside your home, reducing stress on roofing, windows, and siding during extreme cold.

Trim, Fascia, and Soffits: Often Overlooked

Trim components are especially vulnerable to winter damage.

Inspect Vulnerable Areas

Check:

• Fascia boards near gutters

• Soffit panels for cracks or gaps

• Painted trim for peeling or blistering

These areas often show early signs of moisture intrusion after winter.

Tree and Landscaping Preparation

Exterior preparation isn’t limited to your home itself.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to break and damage:

• Roofing

• Gutters

• Siding

Trimming trees before winter reduces storm-related risks.

Address Drainage Around the Home

Ensure soil slopes away from the foundation to prevent water pooling during snowmelt.

Coordinating Exterior Systems for Winter Performance

Your home’s exterior works best when systems function together.

Roofing and Gutters

A healthy roof relies on gutters to manage snowmelt and prevent water backup.

Siding and Windows

Proper flashing and sealing keep wind-driven snow and rain from entering wall assemblies.

Whole-System Approach

Addressing only one component may not solve winter problems if other systems are failing.

Common Winter Exterior Problems in WI & IL Homes

Homeowners often encounter these issues after winter:

• Ice dams and roof leaks

• Cracked siding or trim

• Frozen or overflowing gutters

• Drafty rooms and high heating bills

Most of these problems are preventable with early preparation.

When to Schedule Winter Prep

Best Time: Early to Mid-Fall

Preparing in fall allows:

• Easier scheduling

• Safer working conditions

• Time to address unexpected issues

Waiting until the first snowfall often limits repair options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I prepare my home for winter?

Early fall is ideal, before temperatures consistently drop below freezing.

Can exterior repairs be done in winter?

Some emergency repairs can be done, but cold weather limits materials and installation quality.

Are ice dams always caused by roofing problems?

Not always. Insulation, ventilation, and air leaks often play a major role.

Should gutters be cleaned even if I have gutter guards?

Yes. Gutter guards reduce debris but still require inspection and maintenance.

Does preparing the exterior really lower energy bills?

Yes. Sealing air leaks and improving system performance reduces heat loss and HVAC strain.

A Proactive Approach to Midwest Winters

Preparing your home’s exterior for winter isn’t about overreacting—it’s about understanding how Midwest weather affects homes and addressing issues before they escalate. Roofs, siding, windows, and gutters all play a role in keeping your home warm, dry, and protected through months of cold and snow.

Huskie Exteriors works with homeowners across Wisconsin and Illinois, offering experience with exterior systems designed for Midwest winters. A thoughtful, proactive approach today can help prevent winter surprises and protect your home for many seasons to come.